ELIZABETHTOWN
Vernon L. Jewell, 85, of Elizabethtown, Indiana, passed away peacefully on the 26th of August, 2024. Born on January 3, 1939, in Martin County, Indiana, he was the son of the late Rev. Marvin and Ruth Carroll Jewell. Vernon’s life was marked by his unwavering kindness, wisdom, and thoughtfulness that touched all who knew him.
Vernon’s commitment to his community was evident through his dedicated service as a Bartholomew County Commissioner from 1985 until 1992, Auditor from 1993 until 2000, and Treasurer from 2001 until 2008. His entrepreneurial spirit shone as the former owner of the Reed and Jewell Funeral Home and the current owner of the Jewell-Rittman Family Funeral Home. Vernon’s professional life was a testament to his integrity and his desire to serve others.
He leaves behind his wife, Phyllis Jewell, and his children: Diane Smith of Columbus, Indiana, Heeth Jewell of Columbus, Indiana, Nick (Jodi) Rittman of Columbus, Indiana, Todd Rittman of Louisville, Kentucky, and Vikki (Rob) Henkle of Indianapolis, Indiana. Vernon was preceded in death by his son Keith Jewell and daughter Mindie Jewell. His legacy continues through his grandchildren, Cortney (Joey) Caplinger, Gage (Tiffany) Jewell, Wesley (Jaleigh) Jewell, Tiffany (Scott) Lehman, Lauren (Sam) Glanders, Abby (Josh) Swift, Parker Rittman, Sloan Rittman, Connor Henkle, Peyton Henkle, and Brayden Henkle and his eight great-grandchildren.
Vernon’s memory will also be treasured by his sisters Reova Meredith of Columbus, Indiana, Laconda (Paul) Wilson of Redford, Michigan, Rita Carr of Columbus, Indiana, Rebecca (Wayne) Haney of Nappanee, Indiana, Reba McFall of Columbus, Indiana, his son-in-law Milo Smith of Columbus, Indiana, and his daughter-in-law Donna Fields of Columbus, Indiana, along with many loving nieces and nephews. His sister Roberta Hughes preceded him in death.
A devout Christian, Vernon attended the First Church of the Nazarene as well as Bethel Holiness Church, where he shared in fellowship with many friends. His love for fishing created countless memories, especially during family trips to the lakes of Canada. These moments, now cherished memories, are a testament to his love for nature and the joy he found in life’s simple pleasures.
As Albert Einstein once said, “Only a life lived for others is a life worthwhile,” and Vernon embodied this philosophy through his actions and the love he shared. His presence will be dearly missed, but his impact will continue to resonate in the lives of those he touched.
Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, August 31, 2024, at First Church of the Nazarene in Columbus with Revs. Travis Stamper and Wes Jones officiating. Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Friday at the Jewell – Rittman Family Funeral Home and one hour prior to the funeral on Saturday at the church. He will be laid to rest at Flat Rock Baptist Cemetery. Those wishing to make memorial contributions may donate to Gideon’s International through the funeral home.
Vernon’s life was a journey of love, service, and unwavering dedication to his family and community. As we bid him farewell, we celebrate a life well-lived and honor a soul that truly made a difference. His spirit, characterized by kindness and wisdom, will be deeply missed but forever remembered.
